Holiday grief puts survivors to the test
Holidays are usually times of laughter and merriment, but they can be also bring feelings of pain if you’ve lost a loved one.
Hospice of Northeast Georgia Medical Center is offering two grief support groups for “Hope Through the Holidays: Coping with the Death of a Loved One”, which will be held at 675 White Sulphur Road in Gainesville.
The first session will be held from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. Nov.12; and the second session will be held from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Nov. 16.
The support group is free, but registration is required. To register, contact Karla Brookreson-Owens at 770-219-0275 or email Karla.Brookreson-Owens@nghs.com by Nov. 9.
According to experts, there are several steps you can take to get through the upcoming holidays:
- Start a new tradition. Perhaps switch the holiday dinner location.
- Don't be afraid to spend time talking about the loved one and what they liked about the holidays. Join a support group or get help, if necessary.
- Drive your own car, so if you have to leave early you are able to do so.
- Spend time volunteering at that person's favorite charity.
About the Author
Shelia has worked at The Atlanta Journal-Constitution for more than 30 years. Previously, she worked at The Lexington Herald-Leader and The Louisville Defender. Her beat is a bit of a mixed bag that includes religion and spirituality, culture and trends, race and aging. She earned degrees from Spelman College and Northwestern University.
